Australia’s BetStop Initiative Sees Nearly 10,000 Registrations in Months

BetStop, Australia’s National Self-Exclusion Register, is significantly impacting those vulnerable to online gambling harm. Since its inception in August 2023, approximately 10,000 Australians have registered, a majority of whom are below 40, with most opting for lifetime self-exclusion. This highlights the increasing concerns of younger Australians about online gambling’s impact on their lives.

Over 1,200 individuals have been nominated as support persons, chosen by the registered users to aid them through the self-exclusion process.

BetStop efficiently encompasses all licensed Australian wagering service providers, both digital and telephonic. Once registered, providers cannot open accounts or accept bets from those self-excluded, and are barred from sending them promotional materials. The self-exclusion duration ranges from a short 3-month period to a lifetime, with the majority completing the registration process in under 5 minutes. This showcases the system’s user-friendly nature, allowing individuals to quickly safeguard themselves against gambling-related risks.

Wagering providers are mandated to endorse BetStop, ensuring its visibility on their platforms and promotional content.

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) vigilantly oversees industry compliance with BetStop. They are ensuring that self-excluded individuals remain protected against any promotional inducements and can’t open new wagering accounts.

Bolstering BetStop’s efforts, the Government now requires mandatory identity pre-verification for new wagering account holders, reinforcing protection measures, particularly for the younger demographic and those enlisted on BetStop.

Gambling harms resonate profoundly within the community and the nation. With gambling losses in Australia reaching a staggering $25 billion annually – the highest per adult globally – the emphasis on self-exclusion becomes paramount. The accessibility and convenience of online gambling, mainly through mobile devices, has seen its participation more than double in less than a decade. Roughly 3.5 million adult Australians are now engaged in online gambling, with about one million at potential risk of harm.

Reinforcing its commitment, the Government has also prohibited credit card use for online wagering.

For comprehensive details, visit www.betstop.gov.au.

Minister for Communications, Hon Michelle Rowland MP, praised the initiative, emphasizing the Albanese Government’s dedication to mitigating online gambling repercussions. Minister Rowland asserted, “BetStop’s impressive traction among Australians reaffirms its importance. If you require support, I implore you to explore BetStop’s resources.”

Minister for Social Services, Hon Amanda Rishworth MP, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the Government’s multifaceted approach. She added, “Along with BetStop’s positive outcomes, other measures like evidence-based taglines have been beneficial. Our ongoing partnership with state and territory counterparts ensures constant progress in safeguarding Australians against online gambling’s adverse effects.”